I would add that you can go a long way just having some clean color schemes (two wall colors and one trim color will do almost any house) and a few tasteful accent pieces. 

A reputable and established contractor should have1) credit with suppliers to order materials2) the ability to go a couple of weeks without NEEDING money3) a reputation that they value, and not risk losing over running off with a deposit.As a NJ based contractor(Cabinets and Trim only) I may ask for a small deposit if I haven't worked with you in the past, and I don't have references for you that I trust. 

(Other than wood trim.)People move in and they stay 6-12 years.

Recently I had to trim back a tree that cost almost $5K.

I find it less work to go and trim the grass, snow removal, etc.

Would also depend on if we're talking just the walls or the trim, doors and ceilings. 

Said I wasn't allowed to have a glass window in my old back door. so I covered it in cabinet grade plywood and trimmed it out to make it look as good as possible.

Generally, I would be tree trimming once a year to cut back any branches hanging over the houses because of potential damage, but also because of insect transfer.

We have this approximately 4 in wide “trim” along the perimeter of the room.

It's Dec. 2024 and, while the house is built, septic still needs to be installed, exterior grounds, and internal trim and appliances are yet to be completed.